December 19, 2023

Dear Amherst Students,

We are pleased to announce a new textbook program that will provide all enrolled students with the textbooks and course materials required for classes starting in Fall 2024. The program, known as the Amherst College Textbook Solution (ACTS), aims to improve your educational experience and make course materials more accessible and affordable for all students.

ACTS will automatically provide digital or physical course materials for all classes, ensuring that you have the resources you need for your academic success. This program aligns with our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of financial circumstances.

Key features of the program include:

  • Accessibility: Your course materials will be available to you on or before the first day of class, and you will not have to request your course materials. Once you are enrolled in a class, you will receive the required course materials in either digital or print formats.
  • Enhanced Learning Experience: The digital materials provided through the program can be accessed on various devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Additionally, they often come with interactive features, such as highlighting, note-taking, and search functions—all designed to enhance your engagement with the content.
  • Cost Coverage: Amherst will provide required course materials for all students. The cost of course materials will now be among the many facets of Amherst’s education included in the comprehensive fee.
  • Flexibility: Students who change their registration during drop/add will be able to exchange their course materials.

The textbook program will start in Fall 2024, and we will share more information next semester. Should you have any immediate questions or require further information, please visit our FAQ page.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and cooperation as we launch this new program. We believe ACTS will enhance your educational journey.We look forward to your continued success here at Amherst!

Sincerely,

Michael A. Elliott
President

Catherine Epstein
Provost and Dean of the Faculty; Henry Steele Commager Professor of History